Production Supervisor vs. Production Manager: What Are the Differences?

A production supervisor and production manager are both responsible for ensuring that a production runs smoothly. Though their duties may overlap, there are several key differences between these two positions. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between a production supervisor and production manager, and we offer tips for those interested in pursuing a career in production management.

What is a Production Supervisor?

A Production Supervisor is responsible for the day-to-day supervision of a team of production workers. They oversee the production process to ensure that products are being produced efficiently and to the correct quality standards. They may also be responsible for training new production workers, as well as troubleshooting any problems that arise during the production process. Production Supervisors typically work in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What is a Production Manager?

Production Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a production or manufacturing facility. They oversee the production process from start to finish to ensure that products are made efficiently and of high quality. Production Managers develop production schedules, track inventory levels, and coordinate the activities of the production team. They also work with other departments, such as engineering and marketing, to ensure that products meet customer demands. Production Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or a related field. They also have several years of experience working in production or manufacturing.

Production Supervisor vs. Production Manager

Here are the main differences between a production supervisor and a production manager.

Job Duties

Production supervisors fulfill a more hands-on role, performing tasks like operating machinery, overseeing the quality of products and ensuring production goals are met. Production managers, however, typically manage teams and oversee projects from start to finish, providing direction and guidance as needed. They may also perform supervisory duties when necessary, but their primary job is managing the production team.

Job Requirements

Production supervisors typically need at least a high school diploma, although some employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering or a related field. Additionally, production supervisors must have experience working in the production area of the company they wish to supervise. Some employers also require production supervisors to complete a training program specific to their company before being promoted to the position.

To become a production manager, you will likely need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering or a related field. Additionally, production managers must have several years of experience working in production, as well as experience leading and managing a team. Some employers also require production managers to complete a management training program specific to their company.

Work Environment

Production supervisors typically work in the manufacturing facility where their team is located. They may travel to different areas of the plant depending on the needs of their team and the production schedule. Production supervisors often wear protective clothing, such as gloves and safety goggles, while they’re working.

Production managers usually work in an office environment, although some may visit the manufacturing facility occasionally. They spend most of their time completing paperwork and communicating with other departments within the company.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills used by production supervisors and production managers. Both roles require excellent communication skills, as they need to be able to give clear instructions to employees and understand any concerns or questions that workers have. They also both need to have strong organizational skills to plan and coordinate production schedules and ensure that deadlines are met.

However, there are some differences in the skills needed for these two positions. Production supervisors typically need to have more hands-on experience with the manufacturing process, as they may be responsible for training new employees or troubleshooting issues that arise during production. Production managers usually need to have a more comprehensive understanding of business concepts, as they may be responsible for developing budgets and overseeing multiple departments within a company.

Salary

Production supervisors earn an average salary of $64,263 per year, while production managers earn an average salary of $73,786 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has prior to taking the position.